Methane - A Global Perspective

Methane (CH4) is a gas that is naturally present in the atmosphere and is the main component of the fossil fuel, natural gas. In terms of its overall contribution to human-induced climate change, methane is second only to that of carbon dioxide (CO2). It is a potent greenhouse gas, deemed responsible for 20% of post-industrial global warming.

An EU perspective

The EU and member states are already taking this problem seriously and established a number of initiatives to promote renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These initiatives have been largely based on providing premium electricity prices form renewable resources, giving a strong  economic base for the development of long term projects.

Whilst both Germany and France have recognised the benefit of utilising waste gases from a range of sources including mine methane and have introduced long tern incentive plans to support mitigation and generation projects the UK did not take this position.

In 2002 the UK did introduce exemption for electricity generated from coal mine methane from climate change levy, but this was discontinued in 2008 under EU State Aid Regulations. No similar measures have been introduced.
 

Page last updated: 8 February 2011